Description
Garlic Braised Kale is a simple, nutritious, and flavorful side dish featuring tender kale slowly cooked with garlic, olive oil, and broth, finished with bright lemon notes. This easy stovetop recipe delivers perfectly tender greens with a rich, savory taste and a hint of citrus, making it a wholesome addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Produce
- 2 large bunches kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Pantry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Kale: Wash the kale thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and eating.
- Heat Olive Oil and Garlic: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the Kale: Add the chopped kale in batches to the skillet, stirring continuously as each batch wilts down to make room for more kale.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in 1/2 cup of vegetable or chicken broth. Season the kale with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine evenly.
- Braise the Kale: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale is tender and fully wilted.
- Evaporate Excess Liquid: Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to let any excess liquid evaporate and concentrate the flavors.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to add brightness and balance to the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the kale and adjust seasoning if needed with additional salt or lemon juice. Serve immediately as a savory, healthy side dish.
Notes
- Tuscan kale or curly kale both work well for this recipe.
- For a different flavor twist, add a splash of apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice.
- For extra richness, finish with a small pat of butter stirred in at the end.
- Leftover braised kale can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
